Liverpool legend defends Manchester United star

Steven Gerrard has come out to protect Wayne Rooney after Manchester United legend Paul Scholes claimed the striker should be dropped if he cannot reach his peak at the World Cup, Daily Mail reports.

The former United midfielder stated the fact that Roy Hodgson might not have the nerves to put Rooney on the bench even if he fails to perform in Brazil.

However, Liverpool’s Gerrard has protected the England star by saying that the forward man is completely ready for the task ahead as they prepare for friendly against Peru.

The England captain said: “Paul Scholes is wrong. He’s been Manchester United’s best player at home and in Europe. He’s been in terrific form. What I’ve seen from his performances in the United team, he’s been really positive.

“He’s in a better frame of mind going into this tournament than he’s had going into previous tournaments when he’s had injuries.”

Their manager, Hodgson also thinks his number one striker is ready by saying: “Of course I don’t think he’s past his best. I’ve selected him in a 23-man squad that I’m very proud of. I believe in Wayne Rooney, he’s still a young man.”